Kibaki urges Kenyans to exploit EAC trade prospects

President Kibaki has urged Kenyans to take advantage of the trade opportunities provided by the East African Community to diversify their investments.

Addressing the Kenyan diaspora in Burundi Monday night, President Kibaki, who is in on a state visit to Burundi, said the East African Customs Union and Common Market Protocol provide for the free movement of labour, capital, goods and services across the five countries which will accelerate inter-country trade, investment and regional development.

“With a total population of over 120 million people, EAC provides a huge market for producers of goods and services in this region," said President Kibaki.

He restated the government’s commitment to fully implement all aspects of the Common Market Protocol saying Kenya is actively encouraging other EAC Member States to remove any barriers to the trade agreement.

The President thanked the Kenyan diaspora in Burundi for taking the bold step of investing in Burundi, an initiative that fostered the spirit of the East African Community.

At the same time, President Kibaki impressed on Kenyans in the diaspora to register as voters in areas to be designated in the countries of residence to participate in the next General Election, the first under the new Constitution.

“I urge you to take part in this historic process and help in electing suitable leaders both at national and county levels,” said the President.

The meeting was attended by Cabinet ministers: Sam Ongeri, Dalmas Otieno, Moses Wetangula, Mohamed Kuti, Margret Kamar.

Also present were: Assistant minister Bifwoli Wakoli and Kenya’s Ambassador to Burundi Benjamin Mweri among other senior government officials.